UN Secretary-General António Guterres has recommended extending the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) until January 31, 2026, in his latest report on the mission, which covers the period from June 13 to December 11, 2024. Guterres also urged international support for peace efforts on the divided island.
“I welcome the commitment of both Cypriot leaders on October 15 to explore the possibility of opening new crossing points, which led the two sides to discuss the matter under the auspices of my Special Representative,” Guterres said.
The Secretary-General also reflected on the year’s key events, noting that 2024 marked several somber anniversaries for Cyprus. “Unfortunately, the divisive narratives on the island were louder than the voices of peace,” he added.
In the report, Guterres called on both sides to cease violations, requested the removal of unauthorized surveillance systems, and expressed his concern over ongoing “pushbacks” of asylum seekers. He also praised the inclusion of asylum seekers in reception procedures.
Regarding the Famagusta area (Varosha), Guterres expressed concern over the lack of progress in reversing developments in the sealed-off area. The UN chief reiterated the importance of avoiding unilateral actions that could increase tensions and hinder the resumption of negotiations.
The report also condemned restrictions on UNFICYP’s access, particularly to the Waynes Keep cemetery in the buffer zone, which has been obstructed by the Turkish military. It further emphasized the need for political support to secure a sustainable outcome, urging increased intercommunal trade and cultural exchanges to foster trust.
Military violations continued during the reporting period, with 227 incidents recorded (118 by Turkish forces and 109 by the National Guard), with both sides strengthening surveillance systems in the buffer zone. UNFICYP intervened in October when 30 Turkish soldiers approached an asylum seeker camp but withdrew after the peacekeeping force’s intervention.
The situation in the Varosha area remains particularly sensitive. UNFICYP reported the installation of additional surveillance cameras and infrastructure works, though its access to the area remains heavily restricted. The mission noted that no substantial change had occurred in the 3.5% of the area previously opened in 2021 in preparation for reconstruction.
In Strovilia, UNFICYP’s freedom of movement remains constrained, with Turkish Cypriot forces maintaining excessive checkpoints.
On the humanitarian front, UNFICYP facilitated urgent aid for 142 asylum seekers stranded in the buffer zone due to pushbacks from the Republic of Cyprus. These individuals were relocated to reception centers by November.
Efforts to reduce tensions in the Pyla region, where daily incursions by Turkish Cypriot “police” have occurred, continued, but no improvements have been implemented despite agreements to enhance arrangements.
In terms of intercommunal cooperation, UNFICYP supported initiatives in environmental issues, business, and youth engagement, fostering dialogue between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. It also continued to facilitate religious ceremonies and humanitarian aid for displaced Greek Cypriots and Maronites living in the north.
The report also highlights the continued challenges posed by landmines and the lack of progress in their removal. Moreover, disputes over agricultural activities near the northern buffer zone line led to clashes between Greek Cypriot farmers and Turkish forces.
Regarding asylum seekers, the report noted a 62% drop in asylum applications in the third quarter of 2024, citing stricter policies. The report also indicated that Syrian nationals made up 65% of the 21,816 pending asylum cases.
Financially, the UN General Assembly approved a budget of $56.4 million for UNFICYP from July 2024 to June 2025, with contributions from the Republic of Cyprus and Greece.
Despite ongoing challenges, Guterres emphasized the importance of UNFICYP in maintaining stability and promoting dialogue on the island. He pointed to the humanitarian efforts and youth engagement as sources of hope for building trust and achieving a peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue.
